This article was based on the interview with Jon Ricketts of Writerly by Greg Kihlström, MarTech keynote speaker for The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström podcast. Listen to the original episode here:
Generative AI technology has revolutionized the way content is created, offering endless possibilities for generating text quickly and efficiently. However, to ensure the best possible outcomes, it is essential to provide clear and specific prompts to guide the artificial intelligence (AI) in producing the desired output. The podcast interview with Jon Ricketts of Writerly highlights the importance of improving prompts for better outputs when using generative AI platforms such as ChatGPT or Writerly.
One of the key shortcomings identified in the podcast is the failure to meet user expectations due to vague or insufficient input instructions. Many users approach generative AI platforms with the expectation that they will magically create content that matches what is in their head. However, the reality is that the outputs are only as good as the input instructions provided. Therefore, it is crucial for users to be specific and detailed in their prompts to ensure that the AI generates the desired output.
To address this issue, there is a growing need for individuals to develop prompt writing skills. While there are currently job postings for prompt engineers, the podcast suggests that prompt writing skills will eventually become essential for everyone, regardless of their background or role. As companies transition to using generative AI for custom data sets and tasks beyond chat GPT or writerly environments, having prompt writing skills will be crucial for creating meaningful and relevant outputs.
The podcast also emphasizes the importance of a blend of human skill and software assistance in improving prompts for better outputs. While software can help streamline the prompting process and provide suggestions based on the user’s intent, human oversight and refinement are still necessary to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the generated content. By combining human expertise with software assistance, users can optimize the prompt-writing process and achieve more accurate and valuable outputs.
The proper use of generative AI involves setting clear guidelines, providing human oversight, and understanding the limitations of the technology. By leveraging AI as a tool to assist human writers, brands can create high-quality, on-brand content that engages and resonates with their audience. With the right approach, generative AI can be a valuable tool for content creation, helping brands to stay agile, innovative, and competitive in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
